Deathstalker (2025)

*sigh* The poster sucks. They had one job...

I was ready to shit all over this reboot until they used the classic theme from Deathstalker II. And then they used cheesy practical effects. And the tongue in cheek humor. But no nudity. Every film in the series is chock full of sex except this one. I'm very conflicted. In some ways, this is the best Deathstalker movie because it fulfills the potential of the originals that they could never achieve due to lack of budget. In other ways, it feels derivative and tawdry. And the filters in this movie match the ugliness of the poster. I just don't know, guys...

2½ cursed amulets out of 5

Frankie Freako (2024)

A square guy calls a freaky party line in order to add a little spontaneity in his life. It summons a bunch of Gremlins/Ghoulies/Munchies-knockoff characters into his life. This film is amusing but unfortunately opts for a family-friendly approach in order to secure a PG rating (similar to the films they pay homage). An extremely low-budget production with hand-made puppets and practical effects. It strikes you if you're in the right mood, but it's not anything special.

From the director of Psycho Goreman, another weird retro tribute to the past.

2 Shabadoos out of 5